Custom Trailers Power Rock Proof Boats’ Next Phase of Growth

Founded on the Susquehanna River

When it comes to shallow water fishing, few names carry the weight of Rock Proof Boats. Founded on the Susquehanna River in Marysville, PA, Rock Proof has built its reputation around high-performance jet boats tough enough to skim rocky rivers without fear of damage.

For founder Brent Kauffman, the business started with a problem he knew all too well. “I used to fish tournaments on the Susquehanna, and I was constantly destroying boats,” he recalled. “Back in the early eighties, you couldn’t buy a boat that could hit a rock and keep going.”

So he set out to build one himself, and began experimenting with ultra-tough materials, working out of his garage, and testing prototypes on the same unforgiving waters where other boats failed.
“I’ve always loved fishing those shallow waters,” said Kauffman. “I wanted a boat that could take the hits and still let me keep going.”

Word spread quickly. Anglers who saw Rock Proof boats glide through rivers others wouldn’t dare to enter wanted one of their own.

“When people see our boats running in shallow water, the first thing they say is, ‘How in the world is that boat doing that?’ Then they realize they’ve got to have one,” Kauffman said.
The first year in business, Kauffman was thrilled to sell four boats, now they produce more than 100 annually. And as the company pushed innovation with new materials and models, it created a need for a new kind of partner.

Built for the Shallows

With demand rising, Kauffman began developing a standardized model that could be produced consistently at scale, yet still deliver the strength and precision that set Rock Proof apart. The problem was finding a trailer that could handle the unique dimensions of the boat, launch in extremely shallow water, and be manufactured in high volume.

“I just started asking around,” he said, noting that Venture Trailers came up more than once. “So I gave them a call and explained my situation: we’re going to build this new model, we’re going to mass produce it, and we’ll need a large volume of trailers—but I need it designed to be low to the ground and work for our needs and our customers.”

Later, Kauffman visited Venture’s manufacturing facility in Maryland, where he met with co-owner Matt Van Slyke, and engineer Tyler Kane. “I got a good feeling right away,” Kauffman said. “I walked the assembly line and saw they had the capability to build the volume we needed. Tyler immediately understood what I was talking about. He took measurements right there on the spot and said, ‘Yes, we can work with you.’”

Trial, Error, and Teamwork

The first prototypes weren’t perfect, but that was part of the process. “There were little issues here and there, but I’d call Tyler, and he’d resolve them right away. That teamwork was huge,” Kauffman said.

One of Rock Proof’s Tennessee dealers was among the first to receive the updated design. His feedback confirmed they were on the right track: “He said the new trailer is exactly what we need,” Kauffman said. “His customers are happy, and so is he.”

Today, Venture is delivering Rock Proof trailers in multiple configurations – single or dual axle, in two sizes – all tailored to Rock Proof’s growing line. The boats and trailers are sold as complete packages, ready for customers across the U.S. and overseas.

A Shared Philosophy

Both companies share a simple, old-school philosophy: say what you’re going to do, and do it.

“For me, reliability matters,” Kauffman explained. “When Venture says they’ll deliver, they deliver. That’s rare in this business.”

With nearly 30 trailers already produced in just a few months, the partnership is off to a fast start. Kauffman sees Venture as a critical part of Rock Proof’s ability to scale its new “Pro Jet” model and beyond.

“I know Venture can handle our volume as we grow,” Kauffman said. “They stepped up when others couldn’t. It feels like a true partnership.”

And for Venture, it’s another example of what sets them apart: listening, collaborating, and building not just trailers, but solutions that move the boating industry forward.

Check Out Rock Proof Boats Online: RockProofBoats.com

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